For me, life is a journey and in this blog I discuss the tools, beliefs and resources that I have used to make that journey purposeful, peaceful, joyous and prosperous. My journey has been amazing and at times very challenging.
As a professional storyteller, I understand the power of story. To share a story is to offer others an opportunity to not only be a witness to your experience but enable them to examine their own journey.

Monday, October 27, 2014

THE ARTISTTo be an artist you must make art. Sounds like an obtuse statement; but you may be surprised at how many artists do not spend regular, consistent time creating. Here is how to ensure that you make art:

Schedule it. We make time for things that we plan to make time for. Put your art making time on your calendar.

Go on Artist Dates. Julian Cameron in her brilliant book, The Artist Way, "The Artist Date is a once a week, festive, solo expedition to explore that interest you." Carving out this time fires up your imagination which is what every artist needs to create.

THE ADVOCATE

Be a promoter and defender of your craft. Be active in your community of artists. Serve on the board for your state art council or join organizations dedicated to your art form. Your service to these organizations will enable you to:

Stay abreast of happenings in your industry.

Be a part of a community. So often working as an artist can feel very isolating.

Be of service. You have to give to get.

THE AUTHORITYShare information about what you know best: how you create art. The public loves to hear about how artists do what they do. What inspires you? What is your creative process? Who do you admire in your field? Share these insights on your social media timelines. By sharing, you position yourself as knowledgeable (which you are!) and you become a resource.

THE AUTHORPublish what you know. (You really do know a great deal!) Even if writing is not your gift, you can publish. For example, if you are a photographer you could publish some of your pictures. If you are a dancer, you could share your audition horror stories. Today there are a plethora of ways to get a byline, such as starting a blog or writing your own e-book. Wear those four hats and you will create a fulfilling creative artist's life.